A woman 38 years of age came with abdomen pain. After examination laparoscopic cholecystectomy was planned. During surgery, portal vein was injured causing leakage of blood in abdominal cavity and patient was referred to PGI Chandigarh but she died on the way. The case for negligence was filed against operating doctor in the state consumer redressal commission. The points raised which need attention are: Laparoscopic surgery was avoidable. Portal vein injury is rare. Time taken for such surgery is about 1 hour.
But in this case, it was taken more than 3 hours which showed it was to cover up portal vein injury which was not managed properly. Judgement: Since the woman has two minor children. Total fine was of 40 lacs. This includes two FDRs each of 15 lacs for two minor children. And compensation of 10 lacs for the attendant of a patient. Do you agree with this fine or not? Kindly share.
